Osman Baydemir, mayor of Diyarbakır in eastern Turkey who is of Kurdish origin, has apologized to those peoples who densely populated eastern Turkey at one time, including Armenians.

“At one time, Assyrians, Armenians, Kurds and other peoples lived in Mesopotamia [area between Tigris and Euphrates rivers], who, with their religious identity, were a symbol of happiness, tolerance, and peace. However, certain individuals came and ruled over us for many years. People were forced to leave.

“I say this with great pain; the number of Armenian families in Diyarbakır is not more than three — when 120 years ago they made up 40% of the population. No apology can make that tragedy any easier. Yes, you have endured great pains; you’ve been forced to emigrate. However, you can be sure that you haven’t lost; rather, we have lost. You also took the happiness and peace with you,” said Baydemir.